March 25, 2025

Cristiane Alexander is a student in the BS in Elementary Education program. In this short story, Cristiane shares in her own words how Drexel and the PHMC Early Childhood Education Scholarship program has made a tremendous impact on her career and her life. 

This opportunity has truly transformed my life, particularly in terms of the knowledge I’ve gained. 

I have worked at the same preschool for nearly eight years, and throughout that time, I faced many challenges in understanding children’s behavior, interacting with families, and designing activities that would effectively improve the children’s skills while respecting their unique personalities. Pursuing a degree in Elementary Education (PreK-4) has been eye-opening, as it has equipped me with the tools and strategies to address difficult moments when a child is unhappy or unwilling to engage. I have learned that each child is at a different developmental stage, and understanding this has allowed me to recognize why certain behaviors occur and how to respond during different phases of a child's life.

Additionally, I now have the knowledge to communicate effectively with parents, helping them understand the support their children need while in my care. Designing activities has become much easier, as I can now rely on peer-reviewed research that demonstrates what strategies are most effective in meeting the developmental needs of children, especially during their most crucial early years (0 to 5).

In my workplace, I have gained increased respect from my director and colleagues. Our conversations are now more professional, focusing on child development, and I feel supported when I propose new ideas to improve our work with the children.

Being part of a prestigious institution like Drexel has enhanced my credibility with colleagues, parents, and supervisors. The program is excellent, and the professors are incredibly supportive. They provide valuable reading materials, videos, and multiple ways to contact them if I need assistance.

Drexel’s program has also provided me with invaluable field experience, which I believe is crucial for understanding what it’s like to work in a public-school setting. While I work in a private preschool, the experience of engaging with children in a public-school environment will broaden my perspective and enrich my professional development.

This program has given me the confidence to become a better educator, and I am hopeful for the career advancements I will experience upon graduation. Receiving this scholarship is a blessing, and I cannot express my gratitude enough. Without it, I would not have had the opportunity to be part of such an esteemed group of students, gaining access to a high level of education and being recognized for my potential to improve my skills with children. It has not only made me a better professional but also a better person in both personal and professional settings.

The PHMC Scholarship has had a profound impact on both my personal and professional growth. It has provided me with the opportunity to attend Drexel University, which has significantly enhanced my knowledge and skills in early childhood education. With nearly eight years of experience working at a preschool, I have gained a deeper understanding of child development, behavioral strategies, and effective communication with parents. Drexel’s supportive faculty and staff have been instrumental in my success. The professors have provided excellent resources, including reading materials and videos, and have been highly accessible, offering guidance when needed. Additionally, the field experience opportunities have allowed me to apply what I’ve learned in real-world settings, helping me transition from preschool teaching to working in public schools. The flexibility and understanding provided by faculty have allowed me to balance my studies with my professional commitments. This scholarship has opened doors that would have otherwise been closed to me, and I am incredibly grateful for the support it has provided, allowing me to grow as both an educator and an individual.

Cristiane Alexander
BS in Elementary Education